2008 - Chateau Rauzan-Segla

"This outstanding effort is atypically forward, sexy, and opulent. Only 45% of the crop made it into this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Yields were 47 hectoliters per hectare, which is slightly higher than some estates, but the harvest was very late, between October 2-21. Sweet cassis, black cherry, licorice, tobacco leaf, and spice box are all present in the complex aromatics. In the mouth, the wine offers generosity, roundness, sweetness, and velvety, ripe tannins. I was surprised by how forward, precocious, and delicious this wine has already become. It appears set for a relatively long life of 25+ years".

"A touch soft, but persistent, with pretty floral, mulled plum and tobacco notes that glide over light, rounded tannins. The pure finish lets the fruit hang elegantly. Wins on balance rather than depth. Drink now through 2014. 10,500 cases made". _JM